Philosophy and Economics

The BSc Philosophy and Economics at University College London offers a rigorous interdisciplinary programme designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of both philosophical inquiry and economic analysis. This unique combination facilitates the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep awareness of the ethical, logical, and empirical foundations underlying economic theories and policies. Throughout the course, students explore fundamental philosophical questions related to knowledge, existence, and morality, alongside core economic principles including microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. The programme is structured to foster the integration of philosophical perspectives into economic contexts, enabling students to critically evaluate economic arguments and models and consider their broader ethical and societal implications.

Students benefit from a diverse and stimulating curriculum that includes modules such as logic and philosophy of science, political philosophy, game theory, environmental economics, and behavioral economics. Emphasis is placed on developing strong quantitative skills through mathematical and statistical training, which are essential for rigorous economic analysis. Concurrently, students engage in philosophical debates and methodologies, enhancing their ability to think abstractly and critique existing paradigms.

The programme promotes active engagement with real-world issues, encouraging students to apply conceptual insights to contemporary economic and ethical challenges such as inequality, climate change, and global governance. With access to UCL’s extensive academic resources, including distinguished faculty members specializing in both philosophy and economics, students are prepared for further study or careers in fields such as public policy, finance, research, law, and academia. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree fosters a broad intellectual perspective, preparing graduates to analyze complex problems with clarity and ethical sensitivity. Graduates of the programme will possess a well-rounded education that combines logical rigor, economic understanding, and philosophical insight, making them highly versatile and critically engaged contributors to society.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

The first year includes several introductory lecture courses, which provide a foundation for later studies. The programme covers political philosophy, examining questions about the state, liberty and laws; moral philosophy, questioning distinctions of right and wrong, and our motivation for choosing between the two; epistemology which investigates the nature of knowledge and belief; metaphysics, which attempts to grasp the nature of things; and logic, which imparts principles of sound reasoning.

You will study Philosophy and Economics on a roughly equal basis.

A levels

Grades

A*AA

Subjects

Mathematics A* required.

GCSEs

English Language at grade B, plus Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

39

Subjects

A total of 19 points in three higher level subjects including Mathematics grade 7, with no score below 5.

The Philosophy and Economics program at University College London offers a comprehensive approach to understanding fundamental philosophical questions and their relationship to economic theory and practice. Regarding financing studies for this program, students have several options. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's domicile; for UK students, the annual fee is approximately £9,250, while international students are typically charged around £22,150 per year. These fees include access to lectures, seminars, and university facilities.

Funding opportunities are available through various scholarships and bursaries offered directly by UCL. The university provides merit-based scholarships for domestic and international students, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. Additionally, students are encouraged to apply for external funding sources such as government loans, banking study loans, and private scholarships from external organizations. UCL also offers a range of financial support services, including guidance on applying for loans, budgeting, and managing tuition costs effectively.

Students pursuing this program are advised to explore part-time work opportunities available within the university or in the surrounding London area to supplement their income. The cost of living in London should also be taken into account; on average, students should budget for accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses, which can amount to approximately £1,200 to £1,500 per month.

UCL’s Student Finance Office provides detailed information about eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines for funding options. Moreover, certain programs may be eligible for the UCL Access Guarantee, which supports students from underrepresented backgrounds. International students are encouraged to seek specific scholarships aimed at supporting global students, and many external organizations offer funding opportunities for students studying in the UK.

Overall, financing a Philosophy and Economics degree at UCL involves a combination of tuition fees, scholarships, external funding, and personal resources. Planning ahead and exploring all available financial aid options can make pursuing this esteemed program more feasible and less financially burdensome.

The Philosophy and Economics program at University College London (UCL) offers students a unique opportunity to explore two interconnected disciplines that address fundamental questions about human nature, society, and the principles guiding economic systems. This interdisciplinary degree is designed for students who are interested in understanding the philosophical underpinnings of economic theories and the economic implications of philosophical ideas. The program typically combines coursework in core areas such as moral philosophy, logic, political philosophy, microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, allowing students to develop a broad and critical understanding of both fields.

Students in the Philosophy and Economics program are encouraged to think analytically about complex issues, ranging from individual decision-making to global economic policies. They analyze classical and contemporary philosophical texts alongside empirical economic data, fostering skills in logical reasoning, critical analysis, and quantitative methods. The curriculum often includes modules that examine topics such as justice, fairness, market efficiency, government intervention, ethical considerations in economic policymaking, and the philosophical foundations of economic thought.

The program aims to prepare students for various career paths, including academia, public policy, finance, law, and international organizations. It emphasizes the development of transferable skills such as problem-solving, data analysis, written and oral communication, and ethical reasoning. UCL's location in London, a major global hub for finance, politics, and culture, provides students with valuable networking opportunities, internships, and access to seminars and conferences.

Students have access to faculty members who are experts in their respective fields, often engaging in research on topics that intersect philosophy and economics. The program also encourages critical engagement with current economic debates and philosophical discourses, preparing students to contribute thoughtfully to ongoing discussions about economic justice, sustainability, and the role of government in society. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree supports a comprehensive education that equips graduates with the analytical tools and ethical perspectives necessary to tackle complex societal issues in a rapidly changing world.